How to Use Presentation Software Effectively
DO-
- Look at your audience: catch the eyes of random audience members while you talk
- Provide value-added information: give more information than what is shown on the screen
- Know your subject: be prepared to answer questions in detail
- Know your technology: be familiar with how it works and how to fix it when it fails
DON'T-
- Read from the screen
- Include many flashy animations; instead, keep the presentation crisp so your audience doesn't get bored watching letters bouncing on the screen
- Create walls of text; use brief sentences
- Write every detail; instead, provide key words and concepts on the screen and then elaborate from there
Expected Behavior as an Audience Member
DO-
- Have a goal for the session.
- Take notes in order to improve your own presentation or with an eye towards asking questions at the end.
- Give the presenter your attention by keeping your eyes open and looking in their general direction.
- Think up one good question
DON'T-
- Fall asleep.
- Play on your phone.
- Check Facebook.
- Talk with the people next to you.
My Favorite Tip
Project your enthusiasm (even if you have to fake it). People will not remember details, statistics, or anything boring even if it is important. In fact they will only retain a small percentage of your information, if you are lucky. But any topic can be interesting if the speaker is great, and your enthusiasm will be remembered!
Public Speaking tips on You Tube
Public Speaking Books in Library
Essentials of Public Speaking by Call Number: PN4129.15 .H36 2012ISBN: 9780495901136Publication Date: 2011-02-07Packed with sample speeches illustrating what to do, as well as plenty of examples detailing what not to do this value-priced public speaking text equips you with the essential skills and theories needed to become an effective public speaker.
Icebreaker by Call Number: Stamford PN4129.15 .S65 2015ISBN: 9781478615569Publication Date: 2014-11-01Written expressly for those with little or no experience in public speaking, this down-to-earth text provides the nuts and bolts that connect and reinforce essential steps for speech preparation and delivery.
Lend Me Your Ears by Call Number: Stamford PN4129.15 .A85 2005ISBN: 0195300742Publication Date: 2005-11-10Renowned communications researcher, consultant, and speech coach Max Atkinson presents these findings and more in a groundbreaking and refreshing approach that highlights the secrets of successful communication, and shows how anyone can put these into practice and become an effective speaker or presenter.- A Pocket Guide to Public Speaking byCall Number: Stamford PN4129.15 .O37 2010ISBN: 9780312598693Publication Date: 2010-01-01This brief introduction to public speaking offers practical coverage of every topic typically covered in a full-sized text, from invention, research, and organization, to practice and delivery. Its concise, inexpensive format makes it perfect for the public speaking course, and any setting across the curriculum, on the job, or in the community.
